Benched: Skipper named among the substitutes for Stoke City clash GETTY

Brendan Rodgers has left Steven Gerrard on the bench for today's clash with Stoke City at Anfield.

The Liverpool captain has struggled to rekindle his impressive form from last season, and finds himself among the substitutes - along with Adam Lallana - as Rodgers opts for Joe Allen, Lucas and Jordan Henderson in midfield, with the former Sunderland man captaining the side at Anfield.

Rickie Lambert retains his place up front following two goals in two matches, with Mario Balotelli and Daniel Sturridge sidelined.